Testing
Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA)
The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs) are the state tests that help districts measure student progress toward Minnesota's academic standards and meet the requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). The reading and mathematics tests are used to determine whether schools and districts have made adequate yearly progress (AYP) toward all students being proficient in 2014. Science tests are required by ESEA but are not included in AYP calculations.
Reading and mathematics tests are given to students in grades 3–8, 10 and 11. Science tests are given to students in grades 5 and 8 and in the year in high school when students complete a life science course.
All Reading MCAs are offered in the paper administration mode only. All Science MCAs are offered in the online administration mode only. The grades 3–8 Mathematics MCAs are offered in both the online and paper administration mode. The grade 11 Mathematics MCA is offered in the paper administration mode only.
MCA Resources
- MCA Test Preparation Suggestions for Teachers and Parents
- MCA Questions & Answers About the Mathematics, Reading and Science MCA's
- Individual Student Report (ISR) Sample: Math and Reading MCA - II
- Individual Student Report (ISR) Sample: Science MCA - II
- Individual Student Report (ISR) Sample: Reading MCA - II/ GRAD
Graduation-Required Assessment for Diploma (GRAD)
The Graduation-Required Assessments for Diploma (GRAD) are the state tests that fulfill Minnesota’s high school graduation requirement for students who first entered grade 8 in 2005-06 or later. These tests measure student performance on essential skills in Writing, Reading and Mathematics for success in the 21st century. If a student does not satisfy the graduation requirement for an assessment during the first administration, there will be retest opportunities available.
Northwest Evaluationl Association (NWEA) Measures of AcademicProgress (MAP)
MAP tests are administered to students in grades Kindergarten – Grade 11 two to three times a year in the Fisher District. The assessment subjects are mathematics, reading, language and science. The MAP results provide teachers and parents with valuable information about how students are progressing in achieving proficiency in the required Minnesota Academic Standards. Students take MAP tests at individual computers and receive results immediately. Within a week, teachers and parents receive detailed information about areas of strength and weakness. Teachers use the MAP results to target their instruction and help all students achieve proficiency.
Parent Toolkit - A Guide to NWEA Assessment